BY PEPPER FISHER
Sequim – The City of Sequim recently updated its policies on its streetlight poles and other infrastructure located within public rights-of-way and who may use such structures for messaging purposes.
This week there are rumors circulating on social media that City officials have banned hanging American flags on utility poles downtown. The rumor is false.
Currently, the City uses its own employees for all lightpole installations, including holiday ornaments, flower baskets, banners for major events organized or cosponsored by the City (Sunshine and Irrigation Festivals, and Lavender Weekend), and the American flag on appropriate occasions. But no other flags, banners, decorations, or signs are allowed on streetlights, utility poles, or signposts within the public rights-of-way.
In the past, the Chamber of Commerce has put out colored flags on the lightpoles for major festivals, and the Sunrise Rotary has put out American Flags for President’s Day, Memorial Day, Fourth of July, Labor Day, and Veterans Day. City officials say placing these flags during these events will not change.
What’s changed in the ordinance update is this. To reduce the liability of others putting flags on City infrastructure, they will now be placed on the poles by the City’s Public Works crew.
The City says they have contacted the Chamber of Commerce and the Rotary to let them know of this change and are working together with them to continue these programs that are important to the community.
So, the only change is who is placing the flags on the City lightpoles.
You can read the City’s fact sheet on the subject here.